Vibrant Halloumi & Black Bean Burgers with Tangy Pickled Onions

Welcome to a recipe designed to bring a lighter, more vibrant touch to your weeknight cooking without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. This dish is built around colourful ingredients and punchy seasonings, creating a meal that feels both nourishing and exciting to eat, whatever the day brings. Our Halloumi and Black Bean Burgers are a perfect example of this philosophy. The protein-rich pairing of salty halloumi and earthy black beans creates a satisfyingly hearty patty, which is then lifted by the bright, zesty flavour of quick-pickled red onions and fresh herbs. It’s a fresh, wholesome take on a classic comfort food that will leave you feeling energized and inspired.

Ingredients

For the Quick Pickled Onions:

• 1 large red onion, very thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp sea salt

For the Burgers:

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 225g (8oz) block of halloumi, coarsely grated
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying

For Serving:

• 4 brioche or whole wheat burger buns, toasted
• Lettuce leaves (such as butter or romaine)
• Sliced ripe tomatoes
• Yogurt or mayonnaise, for spreading

Instructions

1. Make the Pickled Onions: In a medium jar or bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved completely. Add the thinly sliced red onion, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Set aside for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavours to meld.
2. Prepare the Burger Mixture: Pat the rinsed black beans very dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, mash about three-quarters of the beans with a fork or potato masher until they form a coarse paste. Add the remaining whole beans, the grated halloumi, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Season with a little salt and pepper.
3. Form the Patties: Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1-inch thick. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a few more breadcrumbs.
4. Cook the Burgers: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown, crisp, and heated through.
5. Assemble and Serve: Lightly toast your burger buns. Spread your desired sauce on the bottom bun, then top with a lettuce leaf, the cooked halloumi and black bean patty, a generous pile of tangy pickled onions, and a slice of tomato. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

Nutrition